All About Valves

Archive for the ‘Air Valve’ Category

With rising gas prices and environmental issues taking center stage, it’s no wonder that many people are looking into more fuel efficient cars. But what if you can’t afford a new hybrid, or you need the extra room that your SUV gives you? The good news is there are many ways to make whatever car you own more fuel-efficient, saving you gas money and helping to reduce emissions at the same time.

Many people use their cars as extra storage facilities. But all that extra weight in your car really affects your mileage. If you have to load up your car for work every day, take out the equipment on the weekends. Some people keep recreational equipment in their cars all the time, just in case the opportunity arises. A better idea is to keep your golf clubs, bicycle, tackle boxes, etc. in an easily accessible place in the garage so when that perfect day comes around you can throw it in the car and go. Keeping it out of the car when you don’t need it can make a big difference in fuel economy.

Another thing that many people forget may be the simplest. Check your tire pressure, and check it often. Everyone should keep a tire gauge in their car. They only cost about a dollar and are no bigger than a pen. Tires can be low in pressure without looking that way, and low pressure in your tires means less fuel efficiency. It only takes a moment to check your tires and most gas stations offer air for only a quarter or two. A good idea is to check your tires once a week and before and after long trips.

Keeping your car running well and servicing it when needed will also help keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. A car that has to work harder because of parts that need to be cleaned or replaced will hurt your fuel economy. Parts to check often are: air filters, spark plugs, PVC valve, fuel injector, oxygen sensor and fuel filter. These are some of the most common parts that can affect your car’s fuel efficiency, especially if you have a high performance vehicle or SUV.

Besides keeping your car light, checking tire pressure, and maintaining your car’s parts, there are things that you can do everyday to help lower emissions and save you gas. Try to combine trips into one big errand instead of making several trips a day or week. Don’t drive in a rush – stopping and starting abruptly and driving too fast is dangerous and wastes gas.

Making an effort to take care of your vehicle and utilizing these easy steps will not only help save you money at the gas pump, you will be helping the environment as well. Now that you know how easy it is you can get started today!

Lou Karron writes consumer automotive advice for www.bestperformanceautoparts.com.

To find great deals and a huge selection on auto parts to keep your vehicle running efficiently, visit http://www.bestperformanceautoparts.com/ today.

Kausik Dutta
http://www.articlesbase.com/trucks-articles/easy-ways-to-increase-your-cars-fuel-efficiency-125309.html

In Detroit: Great news to car buyers. GM the automaker that has brought the world quality Oldsmobile vehicles and Oldsmobile parts has released the pricing of the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave luxury crossover sport utility vehicle due to arrive in dealerships early this summer. And that’s not all, the 2008 Enclave will also come equipped with a long list of standard equipment, a suite of owner services and a priced said to be unmatched in the segment.

The front-wheel-drive Enclave CX will have a starting price of $32,790 while the all-wheel-drive model will start at $34,790. The front-wheel-drive Enclave will begin at $34,990 and the all-wheel-drive version starts at $36,990. The prices include a $735 destination charge.

Steve Shannon Buick General Manager said, “Enclave is a segment-busting luxury crossover that best defines the new face of Buick. Its gorgeous design, high-tech features, functionality and roominess, coupled with a quiet and refined ride, put us in a great position to attract new customers.”

2008 Buick Enclave’s List of Standard Equipment

As mentioned Buick first luxury crossover SUV is equipped with a long list of standard equipment and technologies that are uncommon for vehicles at Enclave’s introductory price.

The all-new 2008 Buick Enclave is powered by 275horsepower 3.6L V-6 powertrain featuring Variable Valve Timing (VVT). A sophisticated dual-overhead camshaft engine is mated to Buick’s first six-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new Buick Enclave has a spacious cabin that comes with a standard seven-passenger seating configuration, that includes second-row Smart Slide captain’s chairs and a third row seat that can seat three adults. The Smart Slide chairs allow occupants to have a quick and effortless access to Enclave’s third row.

Here are some of the other standard features included in the all-new 2008 Enclave:

13. Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps with automatic headlamp control

14. heated, power outside mirrors with integrated turn signals

15. power rear liftgate with remote

16. leather-wrapped, genuine Mahogany wood steering wheel with tilt and telescoping steering column

17. Variable-assist power steering

18. AM/FM stereo with single-CD player, Radio Data System display. MP3 capability, six speakers and speed-compensated radio volume

19. Tiffany-style analog clock

20. Tri-zone automatic climate control

21. remote keyless entry

22. XM Satellite Radio (includes three-month subscription)

23. Dual Chrome exhaust

24. Reading lamps in all three rows

GM engineers have also equipped the Enclave with a standard QuietTuning making this car as the quietest crossover on the road. How? The QuiteTuning equipped on the Enclave reduce, block and absorb unwanted noise from entering the interior cabin.

All Enclave models are equipped with safety features such as: six standard air bags, including dual-stage frontal airbags, roof rail head curtain air bags for all three seating rows, and thorax side airbags for the first-row seats, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, StabiliTRal electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control.

In addition all Enclave models come standard with the industry’s best coverage and a suite of owner services including a four-year/50,000 mile vehicle warranty, a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and an OnStar with Turn-By-Turn voice activated navigation and one-year Directions & Connections Plan.

Correy Putton
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/pricing-for-allnew-buick-enclave-released-97799.html

If you are replacing the old water heater with a new unit that is similar to the old one, you will not find it very difficult to replace it. Moreover, if you follow the steps below, it will certainly make your task much easier.
– Shut off the water supply
– If you have a gas heater, shut off the gas supply, or if you have an electric heater, turn off the power supply.
– The next step is to drain the water from the tank. If you do not have a floor drain underneath the valve, you can connect a hose to the drain valve, near the base of the tank. Run it to a nearby drain or outdoors, and then open the valve.
– Unscrew the inlet and outlet fittings from the top of the tank, using two wrenches.
– If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas inlet valve. Disconnect the union or flare fitting between the gas supply pipe and the inlet valve. You can use two wrenches to disconnect the same. You will also find a flue hat at the top of the tank. It expels gases into the flue. Remove this flue hat as well.
– Remove the old water heater.
– Set the new water heater carefully in place so that the burner and controls are accessible. Make sure that there is at least six inches of clearance around its perimeter, and it is away from any flammable materials.
– It is better if you fill the base with pieces of asphalt shingles or plastic wedges.
– Wrap the threads of the heat trap fittings with pipe-wrap tape.
– Connect blue thread of the fittings into the cold water inlet of the water heater, and red into the hot water outlet.
– Be careful while connecting the same. Make sure that the arrows are marked on the fittings point in the water flow direction.
– On the inlet and outlet pipes of water heater install the new flexible connectors.
– Make sure that all connections are complete.
– Open the shutoff wall and fill the tank.
– Open a few hot-water faucets so that the air in the pipes should bleed off.
– Now assemble the gas pipes per the manufacturer’s instruction.
– Brush soapy water on all the connections, and carefully watch it should not produce any bubbles. If it does, recheck the connection once again.

Some Other Handy Tips
– Check with your local building department and confirm whether your home is in an earthquake zone. Install straps around the new water heater.
– If the height of the new tank is different from the old one, you will have to use flexible pipe connectors for the water inlet and outlet. This will make them able to bend whenever it is needed to make the hookup.

In case the pipes are not threaded, replace them with threaded nipples. Use an adjustable wrench to adjust the connectors to the nipples.

Hence, if you follow the above steps and the tips, you will find it very simple to replace a water heater.

Owen Walcher
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/replacing-your-hot-water-heater-no-plumber-required-64604.html

Just got this Mercedes 190e and have noticed the air pipe to the idle air control valve was disconnected. If I connect it up then the engine stalls and won’t start. Also if I put my finger over the pipe (it sucks air) then it also stalls. All help appreciated.

Sounds like the sensor is bad probably why someone had it unplugged

Scanned my 1990 Mazda RX-7 (Non-turbo) for codes. The code was for my split air Solenoid Valve. What is that, and does it effect my mpg any? I think its just emissions but I’m not sure.
I put a vacuum gauge and its reading at around 17 idle. That’s a little low, does that mean I’m leaking vacuum pressure? Or could it be just because it’s an old car its low compression… What should I take out?

If it is leaking vacuum pressure it will, I know sometimes those little pieces on rx-7’s can be really expensive, I would take it out and try to cap the vacuum lines around it.

The new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is a combination of exotic charm and driven to thrill design. The Eclipse Spyder has a high-tech convertible top and offered at an outstanding value. It is equipped with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, especially designed Mitsubishi muffler, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with standard Rockford-Fosgate® Premium Audi system that comes with six months complimentary service. All the Mitsubishi Eclipse models for 2008 are equipped with standard Tire pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is offered in two trim levels namely the GS model which is powered by a 162 hp 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that is mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four speed-automatic. The 3.8 liter V6 engine of the Spyder GT revs up 260 hp and 258 lb-ft of peak torque and is teamed with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic.

The Mitsubishi MIVEC or Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control system is featured on both the four-cylinder and the V6 engines that optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range. The Eclipse automatic transmissions feature Sportronic™ shifters that enable manual gear shift control.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder’s compact platform and specially fitted Mitsubishi mufflers provides the four-wheel independent suspension with a sporty and comfortable handling. The Eclipse’s fabric top folds automatically and disappears under a flush-fitting powered tonneau cover in as little as 19 seconds. The multi-layered construction provides the Eclipse with a full head liner that gives it with a quiet, snug interior feeling likened to that of a coupe when it is raised. The glass rear window of the Eclipse features a defroster that removes ice or frost especially during winter season.

The exotic design theme of the Eclipse continues into its interior. Its wave-form instrument panel houses easy-to-reach controls and features motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice blue LED nighttime illumination. Three interior schemes are offered such as the Hi-Q Sport (medium gray), Avante Garde (terra cotta), and Techno-Sport (dark charcoal).

The Eclipse’s high-back front bucket seats reflect Mitsubishi’s involvement in motorsports. It features integrated, open head restraints that provide the Eclipse with a sporty look and enhanced rear visibility. The steering wheel is made even more special with the addition of audio system remote controls.

Both of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder models are equipped with standard 650 watt Rockford-Fosgate® premium audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability that includes a six-disc, in-dash CD changer with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. The audio system was specially engineered to provide the Eclipse with a unique automatic sound equalization. There is also an 8-in subwoofer which is integrated into the rear seat to provide deep bass sound and also made as additional design element for the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder.

Details of the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder:

Key Specifications

Wheelbase: 101.4

Length: 179.7 in.

Height: 54.4 in. (54.7 in., 18-in. wheels)

Width: 72.2 in.

Curb weight: GS, 5-speed manual - 3,472 lbs. / GT, 6-speed manual - 3,682 lbs.

Major Standard Features

* 17-in. alloy wheels (GS)

* 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system, including SIRIUS Satellite Radio

* Air conditioning

* Anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

* Cruise control

* Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors

* Front seat mounted side-impact air bags

* Engine immobilizer anti-theft system

* Fog lamps

* Keyless entry

* Power cloth soft top with powered tonneau cover

* Power windows, locks and mirrors

* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT adds

* 18-in. alloy wheels and 235/45 R18 tires

* Center display with outside temperature and compass

* Electronic traction control

* Larger ventilated rear disc brakes.

Optional Leather Package (GS only):

* Center display with outside temperature and compass

* Glovebox with damper,

* Heated exterior mirrors

* Heated front seats

* Illuminated ignition key cylinder

* Leather seating surfaces

Optional Premium Sport Package (GT only):

* Aluminum pedals

* Aluminum scuff plates

* Automatic climate control system

* Heated exterior mirrors

* Heated front seats

* Leather seating surfaces

* Six-way power driver’s seat

* Sword Silver lipless 18-in. alloy wheels

* Wind deflector (removable)

Jerick Brooks
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/the-exotically-designed-new-2008-mitsubishi-eclipse-spyder-138339.html

I have tried draining the system by gravity. I do not have the money to replace or rebuild the power steering system. I would like to know how much an air purge valve costs because my power steering fluid leaks out of this valve. Likes its old or something. I cant find a price at checker or autozone and I only need this part. Please answer my question. Thanks<3

Normally they would cost between $50 - $70 depending where you go. I would suggest www.autozone.com or someplace like that.

So then, why would you want to learn how to change your own cars oil? The simple and straight forward answer to this is because it will save you valuable time and money. No long waiting in queues at your local car service garage or oil changing shop. For around 10 dollars you are able to purchase a new oil filter and some quality oil for the engine.

Three easy steps are required when changing your cars oil:

1. Draining away the old oil.
2. Taking the old oil filter out and replacing it with a new one.
3. Placing the new oil into the engine.

To know when to go ahead and change your cars motor oil consult the manual for the car. What is typical is that manufacturers recommend that for a usual service you should change the oil every 6000 miles, every 3000 miles for a car that has been heavily used. Cleaning the cars engine of oil just before selling it increases your chance of the engine sounding at the very least satisfactory to any potential buyer, often even with over 100,000 miles on the clock! A great tip with oil changing is to make a change after a cars first 300 miles in it’s so called ‘break-in period’. Afterwards, changing the oil every 6000 miles is usually adequate.

As to what type of oil to use don’t go for the cheapest out there since this will simply mean your engine will wear out faster with use. The best oils to use are those that pass the American Petroleum Institute (API) classification SL. Pennzoil, Mobil, Quaker State, Havoline or Valvoline brands of oils are reliable, containing substances that prolong the life of an engine.

If just before winter you decide to change your oil a great lubricant to use is SAE 10W30 weight oil. This oils thin 10 weight viscosity is great for helping the car to start when in cold weather. Upon the engine warming up the viscosity increases to 30 weight providing a greater degree of protection. On the other hand, if you seek to replace the oil just before summer SAE 10W40 weight oil is better. This is heavier, at 40 weight, better protecting your engine in hot weather.

To begin with you need to allow the engine to get nice and cool. Modern day engines tend to run at about 300 F, at this temperature you are easily burnt by hot oil. If you feel you have the necessary protective outerwear then you could drive the car round the block until its engine has warmed up. This will mean the oil is thinner and so will drain out of the engine better.

Do this whole oil changing procedure on a nice and flat, firm area like a driveway or the road. Jack the car up, but make sure you use jack stands before you get under the car to locate find the oil drain. No oil change is worth even the slightest chance of death!

Step 1. To drain the remaining existing oil find the plug for the oil drain and turn it clockwise. The plug needs to be started with your fingers. If at all difficult to turn, don’t continue, turn a little the other way to stop crossing the threads. If you have time give the engine an our or so to let the last of the drops of dirty oil fall from the engine.

Step 2. Putting a new oil filter into the car involves initially placing the oil catch pan below the oil filter. With the aid of an oil filter wrench take out the filter.

Strap type oil filter wrenches are especially good for this task. Socket type oil filter tools are used with ratchets, as with a normal socket. One problem with this type of tool is it has the frustrating ability of getting stuck on the filter one time too many. Only use the socket type tool if not enough clearance exists around the filter for the more effective strap type tool.

Using your finger place a thin coating of motor oil upon the gasket of the new filter to improve its seal.

What follows is a very important set of rules that must be followed properly to avoid potential disaster.

Place the new filter into the car with your hands, stop turning if there is any minor difficulty experienced, take it out and try again carefully. As before, threads must not be allowed to cross. The majority of filters have instructions on them detailing that one further turn is applicable once in contact with the gasket.

Ensure the filter is screwed on so that it is hard to turn further with your hands. Using the oil filter wrench increase the torsion a little further by around 1/8 to 1/4 of a turn (very important).

A loosely fitted filter results in oil gushing our once the engine is started due to the high internal pressure exerted. If oil does appear you need to immediately turn off the engine otherwise it could be in danger of ceasing up literally within seconds.

Too tight a seal to the gasket and you may well end up with a seal that is hard to undo. In this case, if you have sufficient room about the filter you could possibly partially hammer a screwdriver or similar into the filter casing and body to then be able to push it round.

It is important to note that GM’s dual-overhead-cam EcoTec engine is unusual in that it has an oil filter positioned at the top of the engine. To remove the filter more easily you should remove the hose for the air intake. The oil filter canister sits below and on the right of the end of the open tube that intakes the air. The correct size wrench is required to take the canister lid off. Specific filter cartridges are used here.

Step 3. New oil must now be added to the engine. On the valve cover should be the oil filler cap, make sure that this is the correct cap! Then remove it, and start to pour the oil into the engine, via a funnel preferably.

The correct quantity of oil to add to the engine should be stated in the car manual. The majority of engines can take 4-5 quarts. Remember not to overfill the crank case. Excess oil may be blown through the PCV valve potentially causing the engine to stall, when the engine is started.

Place the oil filler cap back on securely.

Lastly, turn the engine on, keep watching the warning light for the oil to ensure that it turns off. No oil should be leaking from under the vehicle. Turn off the engine, wait for a minute so as to let the oil drain down to the crank case, then with the dip stick check the level of the oil.

Locate and pull the dip stick out, clean the measuring end with a cloth or other nearby absorptive material and place the stick right the way back into its sheath. Wait for a few seconds then take the stick back out to see the oil level. The oil level should be between the maximum and minimum oil levels marked on the measuring section of the stick, ideally 3/4 of the way up.

Try and recycle your used oil since it is illegal to dispose of improperly. Pour the collected oil into containers for easy transport to your local recycling unit.

There you go, you have now learnt one of the most significant ways of extending the life of your engine.

Alex Rider
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/how-to-go-about-changing-your-cars-motor-oil-85508.html

You and I are concerned about health issues. We want health safety for our families. We want to know that the food we serve is not going to jeopardize health - and that brings up the subject of microwaving.

Microwaving Plastic

The safety of microwaving food in plastic containers periodically returns to the surface of societal consciousness. Plastics contain chemicals. Many are chemicals we do not want in our food. Do they ooze from the plastic during microwaving?

Some plastics, both containers and wraps, have passed the FDA test, but others are still under scrutiny.

Microwave Tupperware Products

For consumer safety and health, Tupperware Corporation of Orlando, Florida makes microwave Tupperware. It identifies these products on the label so that consumers can use only the products that will not warp or melt. There is a good variety of microwave Tupperware. We discuss only 7 of them here.

1. “Heat ‘N Serve” square round microwave Tupperware is a basic black plastic container with a black lid - called a “seal” by Tupperware. This container can be used to store, freeze, and microwave food without changing containers. A unique feature on this microwave Tupperware is the red valve on top. This automatic valve lets steam escape as food is reheated. Seals will not blow off with the build up of steam, and food cannot splatter.

2. “Heat ‘N Serve” Containers are similar to the above microwave Tupperware, but are available in round and oval shapes. A raised hub in the middle of the bottom allows food to heat evenly in this microwave Tupperware, with no need for frequent stirring.

3. Another line of microwave Tupperware is the black and red “Rock ‘n Serve” set. With the same automatic “no-worry” valve as described above, these products are available in round or rectangular, small or large.

4. For microwave Tupperware that is super convenient for a family, you may want to try the microwave luncheon plates. These, too, have a footed base that lets air flow evenly around your food in the microwave. Food heats more quickly - but the plates’ edges remain cool for safety.

5. If you have food you want to steam, you will want to see the microsteamer. This special microwave Tupperware steams healthful dishes in less than 15 minutes. You can also use it for heating tortillas and pita bread.

6. Like hot oatmeal for breakfast? The line of microwave Tupperware includes microwaveable cereal bowls.

7. And if you’re cooking for one, you will appreciate the divided bowl that lets you microwave a 3-course meal in one bowl.

Microwave Tupperware are safe plastics. They give you the convenience and light weight you’ve come to associate with Tupperware, and the safety of cooking healthful food in that lightweight convenience.

Since microwave Tupperware are unbreakable, you can even let younger children help - with supervision, of course.

One of the features of microwave Tupperware people seem to talk about often is the warranty. All Tupperware products come with a full lifetime warranty against breaking, chipping, cracking, or peeling. I know of no other microwaveable plastic that carries such a warranty.

Disadvantages of Microwave Tupperware

I have heard no one voice a disadvantage of microwave Tupperware other than the initial cost. We are not accustomed to think of plastic as an expensive item, and many think Tupperware is too costly. Others point out that it is an investment, and with its long life the cost is soon recouped.

If you are interested in trying microwave Tupperware, you can order online, at a kiosk in some malls, or through a local distributor. You may find a Tupperware party to attend, but these are no longer the only outlet.

NOTE: I have never been a Tupperware dealer or representative of any kind, and am not one now. I merely have an interest in the product.

Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/microwave-tupperware-safely-125934.html

Suppose you deflate a bicycle tire be depressing the Air Valve. Why does air rush out of the tire? After the air stops rushing out of the tire, is the tire empty?.

1.The air in the tyre is under pressure and so rushes out from high to low pressure.
2.The tyre is not empty (this would be a vacuum) but contains air at atmospheric pressure.